May-Thurner syndrome: what is it? The reason behind Lauren Boebert's diagnosis

(NEXSTAR) – Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Republican from Colorado, rushed to the hospital last week after noticing "extreme swelling" in her leg. According to her campaign, doctors performed several tests and determined that Boebert had May-Thurner syndrome.

According to Cleveland Clinic, the little-known disease happens when the left iliac vein—which carries blood from the left leg to the heart—presses against the right iliac artery, which is situated in the belly. The blood supply to the legs may be cut off by that pressure.


Blood may begin to pool in the legs and form a blood clot, also known as deep vein thrombosis, if it is unable to return to the heart.

May-Thurner Syndrome was diagnosed when Rep. Lauren Boebert was admitted to the hospital with an acute blood clot.
Boebert's campaign stated that she had "severe swelling in her upper left leg," which indicated that there might be an issue.

Usually, the left leg is affected by the syndrome. Heaviness, soreness, skin discoloration, swelling, or ulcers on the left leg are some other symptoms.

Even though May-Thurner syndrome isn't well-known, the issue isn't particularly uncommon. According to a 2012 medical journal article, 1 in 5 persons may suffer from this kind of venous compression, yet many go undiagnosed. Unless a person has blood clots, it may go unnoticed.

 
 

What Exactly is May-Thurner Syndrome?

May-Thurner Syndrome, also known as iliac vein compression syndrome, is a condition characterized by the compression of the left iliac vein by the overlying right iliac artery. This compression can lead to the development of blood clots, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), in the left leg due to restricted blood flow.
 

Understanding the Mechanisms Behind MTS

To comprehend MTS fully, it's crucial to grasp the anatomy involved. The iliac veins are responsible for transporting deoxygenated blood from the lower limbs back to the heart. However, when the right iliac artery compresses the left iliac vein against the pelvic bone, it hampers blood flow, predisposing individuals to clot formation.
 

Signs and Symptoms of May-Thurner Syndrome

MTS often manifests with symptoms related to DVT, such as swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth, and discoloration of the affected leg. These symptoms may worsen with prolonged sitting or standing, making them more noticeable during periods of inactivity.
 

Diagnosis: How is May-Thurner Syndrome Identified?

Diagnosing MTS typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging studies. Duplex ultrasound, venography, and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) are common modalities used to visualize the affected veins and assess blood flow.
 

Treatment Options for May-Thurner Syndrome

Management of MTS aims to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of recurrent blood clots. Treatment modalities may include:
 

1. Anticoagulation Therapy

Anticoagulants, such as heparin and warfarin, are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clot formation and facilitate clot resolution.
 

2. Thrombolytic Therapy

Thrombolytics, or clot-busting medications, may be administered to dissolve existing blood clots and restore normal blood flow.
 

3. Endovascular Interventions

In severe cases, minimally invasive procedures like venous angioplasty and stenting may be performed to widen narrowed veins and improve blood circulation.
 

Prognosis and Outlook

With timely diagnosis and appropriate management, the prognosis for individuals with May-Thurner Syndrome is generally favorable. However, untreated MTS can lead to recurrent DVT, pulmonary embolism, and chronic venous insufficiency, highlighting the importance of prompt intervention.
 

Conclusion

In conclusion, May-Thurner Syndrome is a vascular condition characterized by the compression of the left iliac vein by the right iliac artery, predisposing individuals to blood clot formation in the lower extremities. Early recognition and intervention are paramount in preventing complications and improving patient outcomes. As awareness of MTS grows, it is essential to educate the public about its signs, symptoms, and available treatment options to facilitate timely diagnosis and optimal care.